Marriot London Countyhall Afternoon Tea Review

Marriot London Countyhall Visit: August 2016

The Marriot London Countyhall extended me an invite to partake in their amazing Afternoon Tea experience in the lovely library lounge. The hotel enjoys an enviable position situated adjacent to the river Thames right in the heart of central London.  First impressions count and the Marriot Countyhall do not disappoint. Upon arrival we made our way through the grand astounding arched gateway. The bold topiary island was impressive and added some much needed greenery into London city. Greeted with warmth from the bellboy we knew this was going to be an extraordinary exquisite experience.

No need to pick up a history book, the library lounge officially opened in 1922 by King George V and Queen Mary, certainly has many chapters and a rich historic past.  The stunning venue has seen political clashes in the 1980s between Ken Livingstone of the Greater London Council and Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government.  Also, the venue suffered and survived a bomb strike in World War II. ..Incredible!

The library lounge boasted opulent oak bookcases that displayed the busts of great literally and academic figures such as Milton, Shakespeare, Agrippa and Plato.  Our seating nestled between the bookshelves offered a picture perfect view of big ben and the river Thames. Within this magnificent setting take the opportunity and the moment to absorb, live and breathe a slice of history.  This was made even more remarkable and indulgent with an Afternoon tea offering.

Proceedings began with our fabulous server presenting a pretty pink palate refresher with an edible flower.  Refreshments started with the choosing of the teas.  A briefcase, that I would not mind carrying into any boardroom, was presented to us that displayed a remarkable selection of loose teas.  Opting for the classic peppermint it was perfect, refreshing and light.  Once I find a good read it is hard for me to put the book down and not become absorbed within the text, but the words “free flowing bubbles” certainly got my attention.  Champagne is served continuously throughout the Afternoon tea proceedings with servers discreetly topping up your bubbles, as you engage in conversation and cake.

Anna the 7^th Duchess of Bedford introduced the fashionable trend of partaking in Afternoon Tea and the Marriot Countyhall have successfully executed and continued this trend. Luxurious, classical and elegant.  Offerings included a selection of finely cut sandwiches such as the wonderful Wiltshire Ham & English Mustard, beautiful Burford Brown Egg Mayonnaise & Cress, classic Cucumber, Cream Cheese & Chive, Roasted Angus Beef & Horseradish and Foreman & Son “London Cure” Salmon with Caper Butter. A selection of homemade yummy cakes included delightful delicate jam pastries, lemon cake, cute mini muffins detailing peach iced piping and the Chocolate Daquoise featured indulgent chocolatey layers with gorgeous gold leaf detailing. My personal favourite! The spectacular scrumptious scones included the sweet ‘English Braeburn’ Apple & Cinnamon served with jam and clotted cream and the savoury mouth-watering Montgomery Cheddar & Hampshire watercress Scones.

Opulent historic surroundings, exquisite Afternoon Tea offerings matched with professional, polite and personalised service what is not to like!  Pay a visit to the library lounge at the Marriot London Countyhall, but leave your book at home and start a new chapter.

Thanks for reading 🙂

Melanie xx

The Library Lounge in the London Marriott Hotel County Hall Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB

http://www.marriott.co.uk/hotel-info/lonch-london-marriott-hotel-county-hall/tea/t2fyie7/home-page.mi

020 7902 8055